Jack Anderson is taking the helm at Crystal as interim president and CEO. The announcement comes as Tom Wolber, Crystal's president and CEO since September 2017, steps down to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests, following the completion of his three-year service contract with the company.
Wolber's experience in cruise operations and new shipbuilding has been a guiding force in the expansion of the Crystal brand, which now includes an award-winning fleet of four new river cruise ships and the upcoming 2021 launch of the company's first expedition ship, the Crystal Endeavour. Since 2017, Anderson has overseen Crystal's commercial activities, serving as an advisor to Wolber following his previous executive roles as Crystal Vice President and Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales.
“With nearly a decade of senior leadership and executive consulting roles at the company, combined with over 30 years of experience in the cruise industry, Jack Anderson possesses a deep understanding of the Crystal brand and the luxury cruise market. He is uniquely positioned to fill this role during this pivotal time for travel, ensuring a seamless transition,” says Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, CEO and Chairman of Crystal’s parent company, Genting Hong Kong. “We thank Tom for his dedicated leadership and for expanding Crystal into the expedition market while maintaining Crystal’s commitment to an award-winning luxury experience.”.
Prior to his role with Crystal, Anderson was senior vice president of marketing and sales for Seabourn, Holland America, and Windstar Cruises, and senior vice president of marketing for Carnival Corporation. “It has been a pleasure working alongside Tom, growing this brand that I care so much about, and I wish him all the best in his personal endeavors.”.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside some of the finest professionals in this industry, all of whom embody the 'Crystal Family' philosophy,” said Wolber. “At this time, my focus is on my family. I am grateful for the rewarding experience I had at Crystal and know the company is in very good hands with Jack.”.
The expansion of the award-winning Crystal brand began in 2015 with the acquisition of the company by Genting Hong Kong and the launch of Crystal Yacht Cruises. This was followed by Crystal River Cruises in 2016 with four newly built riverboats, and the company is preparing for the launch of Crystal Expedition Cruises next year.
